Tiger's triumph recreated

The iconic image of Tiger Woods celebrating his maiden triumph at The Open has been recreated in a special painting commissioned by The R&A to celebrate his 50th birthday.

The artwork depicts Tiger punching the air in celebration after winning The 129th Open at St Andrews in 2000 and will be gifted to the three-time Champion Golfer to mark his half-century birthday on 30 December.

Fife artist John Kelly based himself in the Clubhouse of The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews to produce the stunning piece – just yards from the 18th green where Tiger’s record-breaking success was sealed 25 years ago. Aged 24, his triumph at the home of golf saw the American complete the Career Grand Slam.

The victory, widely regarded as one of the finest in Open history, came as the 15-time major winner was reaching the peak of his powers – finishing the week on 19-under par, eight shots clear of his nearest challengers Thomas Bjørn and Ernie Els.

Memorable triumph

Woods lifted the Claret Jug again in 2005 at St Andrews, and the following year at Royal Liverpool, producing some of the Championship’s most thrilling moments along the way. Yet the image of his celebration at the turn of the Millennium endures as one of The Open's most defining scenes.

Mark Darbon, Chief Executive of The R&A, said, “We’re delighted to celebrate Tiger’s milestone birthday with a special painting of his memorable triumph at The Open in 2000.

“Tiger is a three-time Champion Golfer of the Year and an Honorary Member of The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews and we felt it fitting to mark this special occasion.

“I would like to thank John Kelly for all his work in producing the iconic painting and we hope it is one treasured by Tiger.”

A video of John creating the artwork will be made available on official R&A channels to coincide with Tiger’s 50th birthday.

The artist, who is based in nearby Anstruther, specialises in bespoke golf portraits, and regularly creates specially commissioned paintings for individuals playing the Old Course in St Andrews.

His work includes the Old Tom Morris piece which is currently on display in the Links Clubhouse in the town. You can learn more about John’s work here.